The move is connected to the CRA’s shift to online self-service
The Canada Revenue Agency has advised law firms that effective Wednesday April 15, it will not be processing requests from lawyers or law firms for the one-time disclosure of taxpayer information for use in client‑related legal matters.
The agency indicated that requests for income statements, notices of assessment, and benefits information must be filed by clients via its online portals in line with the CRA’s shift to online self-service. This process adjustment also covers unactioned requests in the agency’s inventory, even if they were filed before April 15; the CRA said it was informing requestors directly where possible but urged lawyers and law firms to follow up with clients as well.
The agency explained that the change would bolster the consent process’ integrity and enhance security and efficiency. Clients may access their taxpayer information via their CRA accounts; information slips are generally released by mid-March once issuers have submitted them for the tax year in question.
Clients may contact the issuers of slips, like employers or financial institutions, to secure copies of information slips if these are not found in their CRA accounts. Clients may also ask for proof of income statements to be mailed to them by calling the CRA’s automated hotline (1-800-959-8281).
Last September 15, 2025, the CRA marked its shift to online self-service by no longer accepting one-time authorizations submitted by injury lawyers. The agency implemented an interim policy that provided this directly to taxpayers.
On December 15, 2025, the CRA modified the policy such that it would stop providing copies of income tax slips that could be accessed through its portals via online self-service.
The Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society advised lawyers and law firms to reach out to the CRA directly for any questions about the process change. It informed its members that it would be unable to assist or give more information about the development.
